AMZCHEF CM1666 20-bar espresso machine: features, specs and who it suits

The AMZCHEF CM1666 is a compact, semi-automatic espresso machine for home use. It combines a 20-bar pump, an LCD control panel, adjustable brewing temperature and a steam milk frother, so one machine can make espresso, cappuccino and latte.

What "20 bar" means

Bar is a unit of pressure. Espresso is typically extracted at around 9 bar at the coffee, and many home machines advertise a higher figure for the pump's maximum capability. A 20-bar figure is therefore best read as pump capacity rather than a promise of better coffee. Results depend far more on the grind, dose, freshness of the beans and tamping than on that number.

The LCD panel and brew options

AMZCHEF says the LCD panel lets you monitor the machine's working status and switch between single-cup, double-cup and manual brewing with a button press. Manual brewing is useful if you want to control the shot's length yourself. The machine is semi-automatic, so you grind, fill the portafilter and start the shot, while the machine handles pump and heating.

Adjustable temperature

Water temperature changes the flavour of coffee: hotter water tends to extract more, which can bring out bitterness, while cooler water can taste sharper or thinner. The CM1666 lets you adjust temperature to suit your beans and taste, as the brand puts it, whether you like your coffee "piping hot or a bit cooler".

Milk frothing

A steam wand is built in for creating microfoam, which is the fine, glossy texture used in cappuccinos and lattes. The brand calls it a powerful milk frothing system. Frothing is a skill that takes practice, so allow time to learn how to position the wand and manage the steam.

Smart alerts

The machine gives reminders for low water and overheating. After a low-water alert, AMZCHEF says to turn the frother's button to release pressure before refilling, which helps smooth operation and prolong the machine's life. Alerts are shown on screen and can be heard.

Compact and easy to clean

At about 11.4 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches, it is designed to suit smaller kitchens. The water tank and drip tray are detachable, which makes routine cleaning simpler. The box includes the machine, water tank, single-cup and double-cup filters, a spoon and a user manual.

Who it suits

This type of machine tends to suit people new to espresso who want to make milk drinks at home without a large footprint. If you want a built-in grinder or fully automatic operation, you would need another category of machine.

What to check before you buy

• Whether you will use ground coffee or need a separate grinder.
• Counter space and clearance under cupboards for filling the tank.
• Compatibility of your cup heights with the drip tray.
• The routine for descaling and cleaning, as set out in the manual.
• Local electrical requirements and plug type.
• What is in the box, listed above.

The short version

• Compact semi-automatic espresso machine, model CM1666, with a 20-bar pump.
• LCD panel with single, double and manual brew options.
• Adjustable temperature and a steam milk frother.
• Low-water and overheating alerts; detachable tank and drip tray.

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